Local Expert: Kristin Godburn of Kitty Lee Thomas Sweets Shares Her Downtown Faves

By Kelly Dobkin 

Welcome to Local Expert, a new series in which we show you where food-world heavy hitters and other celebs spend their oh-so-precious off-hours. Today we're spotlighting pastry chef Kristin Godburn, founder/owner of Kitty Lee Thomas Sweets, a delectable sweets company specializing in gourmet marshmallows that you'll find at Hester Street Fair (in NY and LA), among other places. After graduating from the French Culinary Institute in December of 2010, Kristin cut her teeth in the pastry world working at Robicelli's before launching her own brand last year. Check out Kristin's Google+ Local reviews for her favorite downtown spots below.

Hearth Restaurant
403 E. 12th Street, New York, NY 10009
Food 3 / 3 Decor 3 / 3 Service 3 / 3

At one time I had set my vegetarian ways to the side and tried the veal and ricotta meatballs. They are truly amazing. The concord grape sorbet won me over a long time ago too. But everything is pretty amazing here. Get a spot at the kitchen seating and enjoy a glass or two of Riesling from the fantastic wine list. And get ready to watch some magic that is kitchen service.

Bubby's Tribeca
120 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10013
Food 3 / 3 Decor 3 / 3 Service 3 / 3

This place just feels like home - and it's known for serving up some top-notch versions of American classics. I like to go here for lunch and it is a great spot for a midnight brunch too. Portions are generous, service is perfect. The slow-poached tuna sammy is my fave. Their homemade sodas and outrageous sweets menu couldn't be any better.

Noodle Bar
172 Orchard Street, New York NY 10002
Food 3 / 3 Decor 3 / 3 Service 3 / 3

I am kind of particular when it come to noodles. And this pan-Asian bistro rocks. Super laid-back, service is great and the bill won't break the bank. I always go for the veggie Singapore noodles with coconut curry broth which offer the perfect amount of heat to leave your nose running just a little, but nothing a cold Sapporo can't clear right up.


Landmarc
179 W. Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Food 3 / 3 Decor 3 / 3Service3 / 3
Marc Murphy at his best. I love the space with huge circular tables in the center of the dining room, big enough to fit a large party no problem. The menu has a little bit of everything done just right. My favorite dish is the pesto mussels. And who wouldn't love the hand-spun cotton candy that comes at the end of every great meal? It makes you feel just like a kid again.


Back Forty
190 Avenue B, #1, New York, NY 10009
Food 3 / 3 Decor 3 / 3 Service 3 / 3

This is my neighborhood spot for taking out-of-town guests to and it never fails to impress. Simple and seasonal menu/ingredients, and always packed with flavor. The rosemary French fries are seriously ridiculous...I would eat a whole basket. The backyard garden, beautifully strewn with lights makes the ambiance just perfect.